SEMH Teaching Assistant

SEMH Teaching Assistant Location: York, North Yorkshire Contract: Full Time, Term Time Only Start Date: September 2026 Salary: £92 – £115 per day Are you passionate about supporting young people to overcome barriers to learning and achieve their potential? GSL Education is seeking a dedicated and resilient SEMH Teaching Assistant to join a specialist secondary provision in York from September 2026. This is a full-time, long-term opportunity supporting a Key Stage 3 class of students with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on building positive relationships, can remain calm under pressure, and is committed to helping young people re-engage with education. You will work alongside experienced teaching and pastoral staff to provide the consistency, encouragement and support that pupils need to succeed. As an SEMH Teaching Assistant, you will: • Support pupils within a Key Stage 3 classroom setting. • Build strong, trusting relationships with students who may have experienced significant barriers to learning. • Assist with the delivery of engaging lessons and personalised learning activities. • Support pupils with emotional regulation, behaviour management and social development. • Encourage positive attitudes towards learning, attendance and achievement. • Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral teams and other professionals to meet individual pupil needs. • Help create a safe, structured and nurturing learning environment. We're looking for someone who: • Has experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs, SEND, challenging behaviour or additional support needs. • Is patient, resilient and able to maintain a calm, consistent approach. • Has excellent communication and relationship-building skills. • Understands the importance of trauma-informed practice and restorative approaches. • Can adapt to the needs of individual pupils and respond positively to challenges. • Holds an enhanced DBS on the Update Service or is willing to obtain one. Why join GSL Education? • Full-time position from September 2026. • Opportunity to make a genuine difference in the lives of vulnerable young people. • Competitive rates of pay. • Dedicated support from an experienced education consultant. • Access to ongoing training and professional development. • Potential for a permanent position for the right candidate. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a highly supportive specialist setting where relationships, wellbeing and personal growth are at the heart of everything they do. Safeguarding Statement GSL Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check (or be willing to obtain one), satisfactory references, and safer recruitment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. To apply to work with GSL Education as an SEMH Teaching Assistant in York, please submit an up-to-date CV via the application link.